Halal Food Shelf Opens in Willmar, Minnesota to Serve Muslim Community

Halal Food Shelf Opens in Willmar, Minnesota to Serve Muslim Community
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The Community Connector Services Halal Food Shelf has officially opened its doors in Willmar, Minnesota, addressing food insecurity within the city’s growing East African and Muslim population, Startribune reported. The new food shelf aims to provide culturally appropriate food options to those in need.

Supported by Second Harvest Heartland, the facility offers items such as halal meat, onions, potatoes, and milk, with plans to expand its inventory to include staples like beans, sugar, and salt. Abdifatah Mohamed, Executive Director of Community Connector Services, reported a successful opening weekend, during which nearly 40 families received assistance.

The opening is particularly timely, as Minnesota food shelves have experienced a record number of visits. Concerns also persist regarding potential cuts in federal food stamp funding. The initiative underscores the ongoing challenge of food insecurity, which disproportionately affects households of color in Minnesota. The new food shelf is a crucial step towards making food more accessible to all community members in Willmar. The article also provides details on the food shelf’s location and operating hours for those seeking assistance.